Hantavirus Outbreak on Polar Cruise Ship Sparks Global Health Alert

A cruise ship with nearly 150 aboard is off Cape Verde after a suspected hantavirus outbreak resulted in three deaths. The WHO and local authorities are coordinating medical evacuations amid public health concerns. The MV Hondius, a Dutch ship on a polar expedition, now faces restricted docking access.

A suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, a Dutch cruise ship currently off the coast of Cape Verde, has resulted in three deaths and left several others in serious condition. Nearly 150 passengers and crew remain onboard, with Cape Verde authorities denying docking due to public health concerns.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is involved, working alongside local authorities to assess the public health risk and coordinate potential evacuations. Among those needing urgent medical care are two crew members displaying respiratory symptoms. WHO is investigating the outbreak's source as the ship awaits further instructions.

This polar expedition began on April 1 in Argentina but now faces logistical challenges. Cape Verde's Health Ministry has restricted disembarkation, with considerations to move to Las Palmas or Tenerife. Despite the situation's seriousness, WHO reassures that hantavirus transmission risk remains low for the general public.